An important milestone is reaching "maximum medical improvement" (MMI) – the point where your condition has stabilized. Settling before MMI risks undervaluing your claim because future medical needs are unknown.
Typical Head-On Collision Case Timeline
Most head-on collision cases take 12-24 months to resolve. The process includes treatment and recovery, investigation and evidence gathering, demand and negotiation, and potentially litigation. Complex cases with severe injuries may take 2-4 years.
- ✓Initial treatment and recovery: 2-12+ months
- ✓Investigation and case building: 2-6 months
- ✓Demand letter and negotiation: 1-6 months
- ✓Litigation (if necessary): 12-24+ months
- ✓Trial (if no settlement): 1-2 weeks
Factors That Affect Timeline
Several factors influence how long your head-on collision case takes. Severe injuries requiring ongoing treatment extend the timeline. Disputed liability requires more investigation. Multiple parties complicate negotiations. The insurance company's cooperation (or lack thereof) matters significantly.
While you want to resolve your case efficiently, rushing to settlement can cost you money. Waiting until you fully understand your injuries ensures you receive fair compensation.
- ✓Severity and recovery time of injuries
- ✓Clarity of liability
- ✓Number of parties involved
- ✓Insurance company cooperation
- ✓Court backlog (if litigation needed)
- ✓Complexity of damages calculation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my case settle before I'm done treating?▼
It can, but settling before maximum medical improvement risks undervaluing your claim. Wait until you know the full extent of your injuries and future medical needs.
What delays head-on collision settlements?▼
Common delays include disputed liability, ongoing medical treatment, uncooperative insurance companies, complex damages calculations, and court backlogs if litigation is needed.
Should I accept a quick settlement?▼
Be very cautious. Quick settlement offers are usually lowball amounts before you know your full damages. Once you accept, you can't ask for more. Consult an attorney first.
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